Wondering how to get to the Yukon? This guide breaks it down, helping you choose the best option based on your style, budget, and sense of adventure (spoiler: one way is much easier than the others).
Traveling to the Yukon by Air 🛩
What Are the Flight Options?
Flying is, hands down, the quickest and most convenient way to reach the Yukon. The main hub is Whitehorse International Airport (YXY)—think of it as the front door to the Yukon’s untouched wilderness.
Major airlines serve the area, but here’s the real insider tip: Air North is your go-to choice. With friendly service, frequent flights, and a distinctly northern charm (seriously, the in-flight cookies are worth the trip alone), it’s the easiest way to get from major cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton to Whitehorse.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Flying?
Pros:
- You’re there in a few hours—perfect for impatient adventurers.
- Frequent flights mean you can snag a seat when the Northern Lights are calling.
Cons:
- Flights can get pricey during peak seasons, so plan ahead.
- (Using companies like West Trek to help plan your adventures can ensure cheapest rates!)
Driving to the Yukon 🚙
What Does a Road Trip to the Yukon Look Like?
If the phrase “epic road trip” gets your heart racing, driving to the Yukon is for you. The most popular route is the Alaska Highway, starting in British Columbia or Alberta and winding through some of the most stunning scenery in North America.
Estimated driving times:
- Vancouver to Whitehorse: 30+ hours (you’ll definitely need snacks).
- Edmonton to Whitehorse: 24+ hours (and maybe some backup playlists).
What to Expect on the Journey
Picture this: snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and wildlife that might just wander onto the road for a cameo appearance. The views are unbeatable, but the journey requires patience (and a solid set of tires).
Pros:
- Ultimate flexibility—detours are half the fun!
- A chance to see hidden gems along the way.
Cons:
- It’s a time commitment, no question.
- Gas and accommodations can add up, especially in remote areas.
Can I Take a Train or Bus to the Yukon? 🚞
What Does the Train Experience Involve?
While there’s no direct train to the Yukon, you can get close. VIA Rail offers routes to Prince George or Prince Rupert, and from there, you can hop on a bus to reach Whitehorse.
What Bus Connections Are Available?
Long-distance bus services like Yukon Schedules can take you the rest of the way. It’s a scenic (if somewhat lengthy) way to travel for those on a tighter budget.
Pros:
- Affordable and unique—how many people can say they’ve traveled to the Yukon this way?
- A great option for slow travelers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Cons:
- Multiple transfers mean lots of logistical planning.
- Travel times are long—pack a good book or three.
Traveling to the Yukon by Cruise and Ferry
What Does Coastal Travel Involve?
For those who love the sea as much as the mountains, a cruise might be your dream option. Many Alaska cruises dock in Skagway, which is just a short road or rail trip to Whitehorse. You can also explore ferry services like the Alaska Marine Highway System, which offers a scenic way to reach the Yukon.
Pros:
- A cruise and a Yukon adventure? Talk about two bucket list items in one trip!
- Stunning coastal views and a relaxing pace.
Cons:
- It’s a less direct option, so it requires some planning.
- Availability can be limited depending on the season.
Choosing the Best Option for Your Trip
Budget
Flying may cost more upfront, but it saves time. Road trips can be more affordable but factor in gas, food, and accommodations.
Time
Short on time? Flying is your best bet. Have a week or more? Road trips and scenic rail journeys let you soak in every moment.
Travel Style
Do you prefer convenience or the thrill of the open road? Either way, the Yukon’s natural beauty awaits.
Pro tip: Seasons matter. Winter offers prime Aurora views, while summer brings the midnight sun—plan accordingly!
Experience the trip of a lifetime discover the Northern Lights! 💫
Getting to the Yukon is part of the adventure, and there’s no shortage of options to suit your budget, schedule, and sense of wanderlust. But we haven’t even mentioned the greatest part of your adventure yet and that’s witnessing the amazing aurora borealis!
This natural wonder has travelers from all over the world chasing it will leave you in awe. There’s nothing quite like a giant colourful curtain that blankets the entire sky above you, waving and shifting its form in front of your very eyes.
What else is there to do in the Yukon?
Visit the land of the midnight sun during the summertime! There’s nowhere else in Canada where you’ll experience such natural beauty and extremes – the winter months will bring you the most ethereal experiences of the aurora borealis and wildlife chasing. While the summer months produce the amazing phenomenon of the midnight sun. On the day of the summer solstice, there are legitimately 24 hours straight of sun 😅.
Just imagine the endless adventure (and how confused the roosters must be on this day).
Summer solstice ☀️: (Almost) 24 hours of sun
The summer solstice usually falls on June 20 or 21. On this day it is possible to experience 24 hours of light. With the peak of summer, the sun usually sets around 11:36 pm and rises again at 4:27 am. The Yukon truly is a place of sheer wonder and amazement.
Live The Adventure with US!
Whether you’re flying, driving, hiking, or sailing up to the Yukon, there are many ways to enjoy the craziest adventure in all of Canada! If you asked us, we’d say hell, why not do ’em’ ALL and LIVE THE ADVENTURE!
Let West Trek handle the hard stuff so you can focus on making memories. Book your Yukon adventure today!
